Cinema operators to moviegoers on reopening of movie houses: We’re as excited as you are, but . . .

Did you miss watching your favorite movies on the big screen? With the IATF (Inter-Agency Task Force) restrictions loosening up after shutting down movie houses in March last year, cinema operators are just as excited to welcome you and other movie buffs back to watch the latest blockbusters on the big screen.

Here’s the statement from the Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines (CEAP), released last Thursday:

It has been over a year and a half that we had to close our cinema doors to our dear moviegoers.

Extremely grateful

The entire film industry is extremely grateful to the IATF for finally allowing us to reopen under Alert Level 3. Sincerest gratitude goes to those who guided and supported us—Go Negosyo Team, for paving the way to be recognized as an industry appealing for its reopening; the MMDA (Metropolitan Manila Development Authority) for the much-needed guidance; the DTI (Department of Trade and Industry), for always assisting the film industry; and the LGUs, for their utmost support. It also pays to recognize the cinema workers and employees who stood by us on this journey.

Health, safety

We know that you are all excited as we are to watch on the big screen. However, we must do our due diligence by coordinating with the LGUs where our cinemas are located.

This is to ensure that we comply with their detailed guidelines. We are also coordinating with the other stakeholders as they prepare content for the cinemas.

As we get ready to open our doors, please know that we are doing so with the highest dedication to the health and safety of all our patrons and employees as we bring back the cinematic viewing experience you have all been waiting for.

We will be seeing each other again very soon to enjoy the latest movies and blockbusters that we may have missed.

—Rito Asilo INQ